Raila Holds Talks With US Senator Who Brokered Handshake With Uhuru

Azimio leader Raila Odinga held a meeting with US Senator Chris Coons on Sunday, August 13, amidst the current political deadlock in the country. 

In a tweet, Mr Odinga expressed his gratitude for the opportunity to exchange ideas with Coons who is known for facilitating a handshake between Odinga and former President Uhuru Kenyatta in 2018. Coons had previously visited Kenya in March to discuss the political crisis with Odinga, Kenyatta, and Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua. The engagement followed the opposition’s protest against the high cost of living and alleged electoral fraud in the August 2022 presidential election. 

Thanks to Coons’ influence, both political parties decided to engage in bipartisan dialogue in May. However, the talks eventually proved futile. Odinga thereby advocated for further protests to voice their grievances. As the protests in July left a large number of Kenyan casualties, the opposition and the government thus agreed to establish a ten-member group to spearhead concerted discussion, titled the “national dialogue”. Last week, the committee held its debut gathering and is likewise set to reconvene on Monday to discuss the forthcoming talks.

Team leaders Kimani Ichungw’ah and Kalonzo Musyoka said that the initial meeting was successful and showed great promise for future talks. Kalonzo had earlier assured that the committee members would not discuss any matters over the weekend. The discussions are being facilitated by former Nigerian President Olusegun Obasanjo.

Meanwhile, Interior Cabinet Secretary Kithure Kindiki has issued a warning against violence while the government and opposition engage in national dialogue. Speaking on Sunday at Abundant New Life Church in Nyeri Town, the CS stressed that violence should never be considered as a solution if the two parties disagree on any matter. He urged Kenyans to support President William Ruto’s efforts to increase the country’s revenue and prevent debt.